Kilindi Zanzibar

If you want to get away from it all on Zanzibar, then Kilindi might just be the answer! The domed "pavilions", which overlook Tumbatu Island in the north, are scattered across 52 acres and bordered by casuarina forest. Each pavilion has two rainwater plunge pools (with a waterfall inbetween), as well as domed living and sleeping spaces open to the sea.

Kilindi has been described as "a 15 unit piece of functional art scattered along a picturesque-perfect stretch of Northern Zanzibar." Designed by Neil Rocher (who also designed Shompole & Luangwa House, amongst others) in conjunction with some long-serving Tanzanian specialists, Kilindi brings a welcome dash of pizzazz to the island.

Accommodation

Standing watch over the time-honoured Dhow Routes, along a crescent of coral-bright sand, each of the 15 pavilions embrace cascading rain-water pools, lush tropical gardens and domed private spaces of rest, indulgence and well-being.

There are two Family Pavilions that sleep up to 4 people (2 adults and 2 children, in one king size bed and two single beds).

The Kilindi style has become known as 'Zanzibaroque', which is a homage to the unique synthesis of the island's endemic social and historical culture. The domes collect the rainwater, the sleeping areas straddle its storage, and the pools circulate it. Kilindi calls this logically-eco, rather than eco-logical, because it seems the obvious thing to do!

Kilindi's pavilions maximise the light and space, paying homage to the views around them, rather than the knick-knacks inside.

Restaurant

The restaurant is overseen by chef Richie Tewnion (who has worked with Jamie Oliver and Pierre Koffmann, and has an on-site smokery and organic kitchen garden to play with) and managed by Russell Bridgewood (previously at London’s E&O and Annex 3).

Spa

Talented massage therapist Julia Sampson oversees the spa, where skilled East African therapists use traditional techniques incorporating local herbs, oils and honey.

There’s also a T-shaped, 25-metre-long swimming pool, and a screening room.

Sustainability

With solar power, a state-of-the-art water treatment plant that recycles their waste water for reusage in toilets and gardens, Kilindi seeks to make bold claims about sustainable, responsible resource management. The pavilions are spread across 52 acres, and a 500m beach front to ensure that the land is used wisely.

Kilindi believes that high-yield/low volume tourism is the only way forward for tourism in developing countries, and that luxury in Africa is not something that can be commodified and branded, it can only be experienced.

Experience is the new luxury, they believe, and theatre is as important a part of the hotel experience as any modern interior!

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